Paul Courtney
Chief Procurement Officer, Department of Homeland Security
Paul Courtney was named chief procurement officer for the Department of Homeland Security on Aug. 15, 2021. He manages the agency’s acquisition system and supervises 10 contracting heads who offer procurement services across DHS. Before this, he was deputy CPO from June 2019.
Prior to that, Courtney worked with the FBI, heading its contracting activities and overseeing the purchase of around $4 billion in goods and services. He also led changes to streamline FBI business practices during this time.
Between 2007 to 2013, he worked with the Defense Intelligence Agency, helping manage its procurement program and supporting its mission to deliver intelligence promptly to military personnel.
Courtney’s career in contracting began with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, where he took on increasing responsibilities, including managing multibillion-dollar construction and private prison programs.
Why Watch
In a Federal News Network interview, Courtney said he wants his procurement team to embrace DHS’ new plan that emphasizes four key principles: empower, collaborate, innovate and procure. He believes these words will turn DHS into a top-tier acquisition organization. He stressed the importance of both customer and employee experiences. According to Courtney, putting people first, hiring the right people and empowering them with necessary tools will greatly benefit the procurement workforce at DHS, ensuring efficient and effective acquisition of goods and services.